Tag Archives: Mangia Qui

Bob’s Art Blog: September’s Song, Off the Beaten Path

September 17, 2024 | by Bob MacGinnes

It’s that special time of year when the calendar flipped to September before we knew it, and the glorious kaleidoscope of color that lies ahead. The kids are back in school and Labor Day’s end of summer salute foretold the changing of the seasons. “September Song” sounds sweet to all the senses, “as the days become shorter and the leaves turn to flame…September, remember”…that art lies in the heart everywhere you look. The fall forecast is full of thought-provoking, awe-inspiring art. 3rd in the Burg’s bough for September breaks just days from now.

“Reconvered Pieces” by Andrea Lapioli

If you are art lovers of a certain age, you may want to start your 3rd in the Burg activities early like we do, say a midafternoon date for the State Museum at 300 North St. Its latest exhibit, new as of Gallery Walk Sunday, is the 57th edition of the annual “Art of the State” juried exhibition. In all, over $5,000 in cash prizes were awarded to a select group of statewide artists across five categories that included painting, work on paper, sculpture, craft and photography/digital media. A total of 96 works from 96 artists culled from 28 counties throughout the state were chosen from over 2,200 entries. The winners represent the cream of the crop as chosen by a group of discerning judges. Local artist Angela Lapioli took first place in the painting category. Her abstract work, titled “Recovered Pieces,” is an acrylic on canvas that garnered the Elizabethtown resident top honors. Lapioli’s paintings feature diverse approaches, moving from the abstract to more figurative styles. She employs acrylics, collage and oil, as well as cold wax. The museum closes its doors at 4:30 p.m. so give yourself a good hour to walk and view “Art of the State.” The exhibit closes Jan. 5 in the new year.

Rubicon and Mangia Qui in Harrisburg

Afterwards, an early dinner may be just the ticket. So close to the museum it lies doors away at 270-272 North St., Mangia Qui/Rubicon, an epicurean’s delight. First seating for reservations starts at 5 p.m. This Italian fine dining establishment’s reputation places it among the top of any gourmand’s list for a memorable evening of a sumptuous repast. The restaurant is enhanced throughout by art to complete the experience. Mangia Qui translates to “eat here.” While there, be sure to tell Qui Qui Musarra, Mangia Qui’s co-owner and chef, that Ted and Linda Walke of Gallery@2nd heartily recommended her establishment as the go-to place on the way to their art emporium.

Harrisburg’s hidden gem of an art address is Ted’s gallery found at 608 N. 2nd St. in a handsome, Federal-style building. The destination is referenced in Ken Frew’s book, “Building Harrisburg.” The house was built by a brick mason and his son’s way back in 1839. Owner-proprietor and artist in residence, Ted’s approach to ambiance affords two floors devoted to his ink-and-acrylic-on-wood renderings, with one for local artists on an invitational guest list. Ted is erudite and articulate especially when waxing lyrical about art. Gallery@2nd has been in operation since 2010 and is open to the public on 3rd in the Burg evenings and by appointment. Ted’s niche nouveau nonpareil “notes” navigate the lowbrow appeal of pulp comics, masterfully mixing surreal scenes with his alter ego, “Munkybear” an art animal who takes the guard rails off. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss.

“Yellow Magnolias,” fabric art by Barbara Passeri-Warfel

Noteworthy news of a grand reopening for the fall season finds Sunday, Sept. 29 marked on the calendar as Arts on the Square, located at Market Square Presbyterian Church, unveils guest artist, Barbara Passeri-Warfel. Her mixed media, fiber art and paintings provide the centerpiece for an opening afternoon reception at the church at 20 S. 2nd St., from 12:15 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., upstairs in Geneva Hall. Under the leadership of art gallery director, Beth Hager, the church is excited to start its season, which will continue into the new year. Passeri-Warfel expertly weaves the tapestry of the everyday elevating it to a new level of fine art. A highlight of the show is her fabric art masterpiece, “Yellow Magnolias.” The exhibit runs through Dec. 29.

Fall officially arrives this Sunday at 8:44 a.m. Get an early start in style at anyone of the 40 galleries, museums, restaurants, clubs, bar and bistros that comprise the Harrisburg Arts District in Midtown, downtown and all around the square.

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Harrisburg restaurant to hold fundraiser dinner for family of Ukrainian employee, relief efforts

March 30, 2022 | by Maddie Gittens

Rubicon on North Street in Harrisburg

For Anya Romanenko, who has family in Ukraine, the past weeks have been “extremely emotional.”

Romanenko, a staff member at Harrisburg restaurants Rubicon and Mangia Qui, said that going to work has helped keep her steady during a devastating time.

The owners of the North Street trio of restaurants, Mangia Qui, Rubicon and Suba, saw how distraught she was and decided to take action.

On April 19, Rubicon will hold a fundraiser dinner to benefit Romanenko’s family, among others in Ukraine.

“This clearly falls into an unspoken part of our mission statement,” explained Qui Qui Musarra, co-owner of Rubicon. “Historically, Mangia Qui and Rubicon were always supportive of organizing fundraisers to support relief efforts. We are just doing our part.”

The event will feature a multi-course dinner reflecting dishes from Ukrainian cuisine. Romanenko and her parents, who are from Ukraine, will help prepare the food, as well.

According to Musarra, the menu will include authentic dishes like chicken Kiev, red beet borscht, salo or cured pork fat and vereniki, a dumpling dish.

Other local chefs will pitch in, as well. The owner of former Broad Street Market vendor Pikowski’s Pierogi Place and the owner of current market vendor Evanilla Donuts will help with food preparations.

All proceeds from the evening, including tips, will go to Razom for Ukraine, an organization supporting humanitarian relief efforts in the country. Some funds will also be sent to support members of Romenko’s family who are currently living in a bomb shelter.

In addition to experiencing Ukrainian cuisine, Romanenko hopes that guests will learn more about Ukrainian culture and the current war. She plans to speak at the event.

“I just want to bring awareness to people about what’s happening,” she said. “I’m hoping we are able to get the community involved.”

Rubicon is located at 272 North Street, Harrisburg. For more information, visit their website. To make reservations for the dinner to benefit Ukraine, call (717)-233-7358.

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The Painted Word: Take an artsy stroll during Gallery Walk 2021

August 31, 2021 | by Bob MacGinnes

Art by Jim Morphesis

The ring of school bells heralds September’s seasonal changes.

This month, the venerable three “R’s” (reading, ‘riting and ‘rithmatic) assume new meaning for the 33rd edition of the citywide Gallery Walk, now representing “rejuvenation,” “renovation” and “renewal.” And one more “R” added for good measure—“rebounding.”

Carrie Wissler-Thomas, CEO of the Art Association of Harrisburg, is the coordinator of this major fall art event. She is most excited about the 60% increase in participating venues this year, appropriately totaling 21 sites for ‘21. Join me as we channel categories collectively.

Take Me To Church: Since Gallery Walk falls on a Sunday, you may want to start the tour at one of four downtown churches. Showcasing a groundbreaking exhibit within the Riverfront Gallery at St. Stephen’s Cathedral is “De-Colonizing The Christ,” featuring 28 works of Christ as non-white or non-European. It is powerful in its scope and vision. From there, St. Michael’s Lutheran Church will feature the paintings of Halifax artist Thomas Wise. Zion Lutheran Church will showcase small prints of Japanese artist Sadao Watanabe. Tours of the church also will be available. Similarly, church tours will take place at Salem United Church of Christ. Look for “From The Broken Pieces” stained glass art from Diane Hoffer, who creates astounding mosaics, while Barbara James, mixed media artist, showcases her realistic works.

History Housed: The components of history and education go hand-in-glove throughout the McCormick Riverfront Library on Walnut Street. During your visit, you can learn about the library’s renovation and expansion next door into the historic Haldeman Haly House, while eyeing the work of several local artists.

Also downtown, Old City Hall has a history of its own, rich and varied. The apartment complex offers visual works from local artists. And, while strolling about Walnut Street, stop into Strawberry Square to check out the work of students of the Capital Area School for the Arts, who created art during the pandemic year, showing how it affected their lives.

Down on the riverfront, the Civic Club of Harrisburg’s Overlook mansion showcases the art of locals and can be viewed while gazing upon the magnificent Susquehanna. Farther down the river, the John Harris-Simon Cameron Mansion houses the repository of artifacts and adventures from the early days of the county.

Over in Midtown, at the Historic Harrisburg Resource Center, the exhibit “Harrisburg Heritage Highlights through the Decades” features vintage postcards and memorabilia for purchase. Also, author and local historian Rodney J. Ross will sign books for his latest, “Harrisburg and World War II.”

Galleries & Museums: The State Museum of Pennsylvania always has something fascinating within its circular walls. The exhibit, “Witness to History: Col. Paul Evanko’s 9/11 Field Notes,” coincides with the 20th anniversary of 9/11. It details PA State Police Col. Evanko’s race to an emergency command center as soon as he learned the first plane had hit the World Trade Center in Manhattan.

A few blocks away, Gallery@2nd takes the road less traveled, leading to a quartet of like-minded artists offering surreal and abstract approaches that unify their works in the collective experience.

The Susquehanna Art Museum, over in Midtown, is the only dedicated art museum in Harrisburg. It features the final week of the blockbuster exhibit, “The Circle of Truth.” The collection demonstrates how artists view the world as evidenced by 49 evolving interpretations.

Nearby, Robinson’s Gallery offers rare fine prints on view and for purchase, as Midtown Scholar features an art book sidewalk sale out front. Down the street, the resident artists of the Millworks will be on hand to share their work and chat with visitors.

The Susquehanna River provides all the inspiration needed for the gallery, Vivi on Verbeke. Photographer Jeb Boyd, with his virtuosic “Bridges” photographs, captures the fleeting and ever-changing light. Vivian Sterste, co-proprietor, channels her skills on the wheel to create her “Susquehanna River Series” pottery. Together, they present a gallery home that is different with every visit.

A stone’s throw away, Gallery Walk welcomes Harrisburg’s newest art space. The Nyeusi Gallery on 3rd Street specializes in art from Africa and the Caribbean, as well as local Black art. The spacious format is like a breath of fresh air, thanks to owners and curators Michelle Green and Dale Dangleben.

Bite To Eat, Place To Sleep: Add two more “R’s” for restaurant and rest. Mangia Qui is more than a great establishment to dine. Qui Qui Musarra, Staci Basore and Elide Hower will roll out the sidewalk for a plein air demonstration, with local artists painting outdoors. A few blocks away, City House Bed & Breakfast may be the perfect last stop on your itinerary if fatigue sets in. City House presents the paintings of Hershey artist, Joan Maguire, with her watercolor and oil paintings of the sea and shore. If you have a reservation, there are comfy beds upstairs for the weary.

Great Outdoors: Sign up for a guided mural tour. Learn the secrets behind the Harrisburg Mural Festival with artists’ inspirations, themes and techniques. By the end, you may even learn the “mural” of the story. Book your tickets at www.SprocketMuralWorks.com.

Back To The Beginning: This 33rd edition of Gallery Walk begins and ends at the Art Association of Harrisburg with its fall membership exhibition, “Duality.” The opening reception and awards will be held starting at noon with music provided by Hemlock Hollow. Charles Schulz of the Paper Lion Gallery will host the opening reception, with Randy Michener as the exhibition sponsor.

Last year’s Gallery Walk fell under a sparkling fall day and, by all accounts, was received with a tremendous turnout. This year promises even more venues to explore with the added bonus of perhaps not having to wear a mask (at least until Oct. 31).

Gallery Walk 2021 takes place Sept. 12, noon to 5 p.m., at venues throughout Harrisburg. For more information, visit www.artassocofhbg.com/events.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

June 25, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

This fire truck is being raffled off by the Pennsylvania National Fire Museum.

It’s summertime in the Burg, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. If you haven’t dined on 2^nd Street yet for Saturday Nights in the City, this may be the perfect weekend. Before you head out, catch up on this past week’s news, listed and linked, below.

Capital Rebirth is holding its 2^nd annual “Stop the Violence & Drug Abuse” festival on Saturday. They hope the event will entertain the community while also getting across an important message, our online story reported.

Dennis Green, better known as Coach Green, was Harrisburg through and through. In our magazine story, you can read about the former NFL head coach.

Harrisburg’s new website debuted this week with updated features that, officials hope, will make accessing city services easier. According to the city, it was community input that shaped the website’s design. Read more, here.

The Harrisburg School District announced a full return to in-person learning this fall, our online story reported. The district’s receiver also approved the 2021-22 budget, which includes federal funding.

The Harrisburg Zoning Board considered three apartment building projects on Monday night, our reporting found. Philadelphia-based Radon Construction wants to renovate and construct one-bedroom units in the former Church of God/Central Publishing House at 100 N. 13^th St.

Mangia Qui owners opened a new stand in the Broad Street Market, adding to their three other businesses in Harrisburg. Our magazine story has more on their decision to try their hand at more casual dining with Streatery.

Former Mayor Steve Reed’s collectibles may be auctioned off soon, if approved by Harrisburg City Council, our online story reported. There have already been a few auctions over the years for the old-timey artifacts that Reed bought, mainly with public money.

Fresh Pressed HBG will soon open a juice bar on N. 2^nd Street in downtown Harrisburg, our online story reported. The owners want to provide a nutritious option with a focus on natural health.

The Pennsylvania National Fire Museum is raffling off a vintage fire truck for $100 per ticket, our reporting found. Museum officials hope to raise money to support the purchase of new air conditioning units for the building.

Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center opened in historic Gettysburg in 2013, our magazine story reported. At the museum, guests can learn about the Civil War through exhibits, tours and even an escape room.

Summer is in full swing, and Sara Bozich has a great lineup of events for your weekend. Browse her list, here.

Trader Joe’s announced their plan to open in the Harrisburg area, our online story reported. The store will open in the Lower Allen Commons where the former Camp Hill Bon-Ton was located.

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Flavor-Filled Fun: Outdoor options, new dishes spice up Harrisburg’s summer dining scene

May 28, 2021 | by Rachel Lindsley

Outdoor dining at 1700 Degrees Steakhouse. Photo by Rachel Lindsley.

Last summer, dining in Harrisburg was limited to whatever outdoor space a restaurant could quickly cobble together.

Tables were set up in parking lots, sidewalks, even on downtown streets.

Widespread al fresco dining will continue this summer, a rare positive offshoot of the pandemic. In fact, many restaurants will offer both inside and outside options, whether you prefer your eating to be open-air or air-conditioned.

Inside the Hilton Harrisburg lives Ad Lib Craft Kitchen & Bar and 1700 Degrees Steakhouse, two local establishments that welcome guests with an updated al fresco menu.

“We have expanded our offerings towards pre-pandemic times as restrictions have eased and look forward to providing our guests with a large selection of delicious food and beverage options,” said Anthony Bianco, executive chef.

Both restaurants continue to offer old favorites, but are revitalizing their menus with summer ingredients such as green garlic scapes, morels, English peas, gooseberries and asparagus. Seasonal featured items include vichyssoise (a cream of leek and potato soup), fava bean mousse, porcini tortellini, chicken consommé, Faroe Island salmon and monkfish.

As some food connoisseurs remain wary to travel due to the pandemic, Harrisburg restaurants also provide a cultural escape—just in your own backyard.

TASTE, a rotating tasting room concept, brings the Florida Keys to you. Float away at Taste Key West, where you can bask in steamed seafood and tropical drinks. With over 20 margarita flavors, assorted rum drinks, and of course, Key Lime pie, you’re transported to Florida’s southernmost point.

Take a breezy trip to the Caribbean at Los Tres Cubanos, known for their authentic Cuban cuisine near the river in Shipoke. With outdoor seating and homemade daily dishes, they are excited to welcome guests back.

For first-time visitors looking for a menu recommendation, owner Pat Manjon shares a well-known, traditional dish to try.

“Our most sought-after Cuban dish is masita de puerco—tender pork chunks lightly fried to perfection, sautéed with garlic and marinated onions in our signature mojo sauce, served with your choice of a side,” Manjon said.

Just don’t forget about dessert.

“And, to end the meal, guests can try our signature tres leches—a three-layered milk cake,” Manjon said.

From there, take your taste buds east to Asia at Café Fresco-Center City. Spice up your palate with this feng-shui inspired metropolitan retreat. Executive Chef Scott Robinson is freshening up their menu this season with new medleys.

“Scott is a self-described purist, priding himself on creating dishes using organic, garden-fresh ingredients,” said owner Brian Fertenbaugh. “He brings with him experience in five-star restaurants on both the east and west coasts.”

As all dining constraints have been lifted, Café Fresco-Center City and Level 2 are open on Friday and Saturday nights and welcome patrons for easy bar seating. Happy hours have also resumed just in time for after-work drinks on Monday through Friday. Sample some of their Asian-inspired finger foods on discount such as spicy shrimp bao bun, karaage and mushroom pot stickers.

If European dishes are more your style, Rubicon and Mangia Qui pair French ambiance with indulgent cuisine. As a joint venture, they are offering specialty dinner selections including pesce di giorno—Chef Qui’s fresh fish of the day.

Want to stay in for the night? Rubicon even offers delivery on Wednesday and Thursday evenings beginning at 5 p.m. Visit their website to find out more.

On Saturday nights starting at 3:30 p.m., Harrisburg is once again sectioning off its main streets for outdoor dining. These streets include 2nd Street (Market to Pine), State Street (from Church to N. 2nd), North Street (from Susquehanna to 3rd Street) and Conoy Street.

Many restaurants also offer Sunday brunch, including Ad Lib Craft Kitchen & Bar, which features a “Sunday Funday” experience with live entertainment, complimentary mimosas, a discounted raw bar, a bloody Mary bar, and their specialty, Ad Lib monkey bread.

“Our Sunday brunch offerings are the perfect cure to a long weekend,” Chef Bianco said.

As local dining experiences offer sought-after destinations this summer, Harrisburg invites foodies to dine around the world—without leaving the city.

To learn more about “Saturday Nights in the City,” visit www.harrisburgdid.com.

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Full Circle: Mangia Qui owners return to the Broad Street Market with “Streatery”

May 28, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

Elide Hower & Qui Qui Musarra. Photo by Dani Fresh.

If you’ve dined in any one of Qui Qui Musarra’s trio of restaurants—Mangia Qui, Rubicon and Suba—you’re familiar with the classy, intimate atmosphere that comes with the experience at each.

But Musarra, along with partners Staci Basore and Elide Hower, wanted to try something different—something more casual.

In late April, they opened Streatery at the Broad Street Market in Midtown Harrisburg—returning to where the restaurateurs made their debut 20 years ago as “Pasta Art.”

“It’s an honor to be back in the market,” Musarra said. “The people that know us are as excited as we are.”

That rings true for long-time customer Sharon Webb, who loves Mangia Qui and has befriended the owners. Hower, who is running the operations at the market, is like family, she said.

“I’m always excited when they try something new because it’s always fabulous,” Webb said.

According to Musarra, opening a market stand was an idea the team tossed around for a few years. They wanted to reach a larger audience and bring their food to those who have yet to try it.

“It’s a way of showcasing some of our signature items at Mangia Qui to a broader audience who may not dine with us at the restaurant,” Musarra said.

Fresh, Familiar

The owners—and their restaurants—have gained quite the positive reputation over the nearly 25 years they’ve been in Harrisburg. But even with all of the success, Musarra said that opening Streatery was a challenge.

“You can have all the experience in the world, but once you step into something new, there is the unknown,” she said. “That makes it more exciting.”

COVID took a huge bite out of the restaurants’ finances, forcing them to limit their hours, eliminating lunch completely. With the Broad Street Market’s prime time being lunch, Musarra hopes the new location will fill a gap and allow lunchtime customers to get their Mangia Qui fix.

Patrons can still expect the fresh flavor they’re used to, with a more casual feel. At Streatery, chefs offer an ever-changing menu of internationally inspired dishes. There are sandwiches and salads with flavors from places like Italy and Brazil, stuffed with meatballs, chicken, pork belly, prosciutto and pickled eggs. They have meats like those from Suba and olives from Mangia Qui, Musarra said.

On a Thursday afternoon at lunchtime, Albert Boynton waited for his “Triple Play” sandwich, which contains meatballs, mozzarella and pomodoro. He had never eaten at Mangia Qui, but was excited to try Streatery’s food. In other words, he was just the audience the owners hoped to reach.

“I’m going to have to check out their restaurant after this,” he said.

With Musarra and the team’s spur-of-the-moment style of creating dishes, you never quite know what you’re going to get at Streatery.

“It’s easy, accessible food, but it looks good and tastes good,” Hower said.

She said that they hope eventually to hold food demonstrations, as well.

Even though you may be taking your food in a to-go box instead of sitting in Mangia Qui’s dining room, you can expect the same great presentation.

“Food is our art,” Musarra said. “We present it in a way that has a flair.”

Survive to Thrive

Coming full-circle back to where they first started is meaningful to Musarra. She’s built and grown her business over the years, expanding from one small stand at the Broad Street Market into three restaurants.

Not many businesses that outgrow the market return, she said, but she loves the vibe there.

“Why should we forget where we started?” she said. “It’s an exciting time for the market.”

Musarra saw how important takeout became during the pandemic, something they didn’t even really offer before. Street dining took off, too, with many restaurants, including Mangia Qui, expanding outside service.

This was the inspiration behind the name for the market stand—Streatery.

“It became a way to survive,” she said.

As the partners move forward with their newest venture, Musarra is hopeful. Things aren’t yet back to “normal” at Mangia Qui. But, as life keeps moving, Musarra and Hower will keep cooking.

“Coming out of COVID and doing something new is really uplifting,” Musarra said.

Streatery is located in the brick building of the Broad Street Market in Harrisburg.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

March 5, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Conley Gittens

Restaurateur Qui Qui Musarra hopes to become the “Favorite Chef” in a national competition.

Harrisburg’s “Ice in the Burg” festival is this weekend and will feature an ice sculpture from yours truly. Enjoy a walk around the city to admire the frozen art and support local businesses while you do! Before you head out, catch up on this week’s news, listed and linked, below.

Central PA authors share advice for aspiring novelists in our magazine story. Learn a few tips from authors Joel Burcat, Don Helin and Maria V. Snyder.

In his column, our editor reflects on the small enjoyments that COVID has taken away and looks forward to their return. Bumping into a friend at the Broad Street Market, conversing with a stranger, running into a neighbor at a coffee shop—these “collisions” are what he has missed the most.

Harrisburg Academy, along with alumnus Steve Muschlitz and his nonprofit, Wheels from the Heart, provided a Steelton mother of five with a free van. According to a spokesperson for the school, the mother, Jessica, was struggling to provide for her family during COVID, our online story reported.

Harrisburg parks will see improvement as construction continues at the park at 4^th and Dauphin streets and plans take shape for a Chutes and Ladders playground in Reservoir Park. The former should be completed by May and include a “state of the art” basketball court, our online story reported.

Harrisburg School District officials announced their search for a new superintendent to fill the position as early as this summer, our online story reported. Chris Celmer has served as acting superintendent while the school has been under state receivership.

“Ice in the Burg” is coming to Harrisburg this weekend, our online story reported. Over 50 ice sculptures can be found around the city from Friday through Sunday.

A minimum wage hike is up for discussion at the federal and state levels, our online story reported. Harrisburg businesses share their stance on a $15 pay floor and explain why they already pay above minimum wage.

Restaurateur Qui Qui Musarra is hoping to become the nation’s “Favorite Chef” in a competition hosted by celebrity Chef Eddie Matney, our reporting found. Musarra, owner of Mangia Qui in downtown Harrisburg, is a leading contestant, as of now.

Major road construction projects on 7^th and 2^nd Street will begin soon, according to our online story. Long-planned changes to N. 7^th Street, which include the installation of a roundabout, will begin next week. Construction

McNees, Wallace and Nurick LLC will provide five Black-owned businesses with a year’s worth of free legal services, our reporting found. According to McNees officials, last year’s events around the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis spurred them on to create a program that would address systemic racism.

Sara Bozich has ideas to make your weekend fun, including the “Ice in the Burg” festival hosted by Harrisburg. Check out her list of local recommendations.

Wanda Williams, Harrisburg City Council president, announced her run for the Democratic nomination for mayor, our reporting found. Williams is now the sixth to add her name to the growing field of candidates.

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Mangia Qui restaurateur a top contender in national “Favorite Chef” contest

March 1, 2021 | by Maddie Conley Gittens

Qui Qui Musarra outside her restaurants on North Street in Harrisburg.

Qui Qui Musarra sat across from me in her restaurant, Rubicon, on Monday afternoon and told me how the pandemic has set the business back by 10 years.

The pandemic has been hard on the owner of the Harrisburg restaurant trio—Mangia Qui, Rubicon and Suba, as it has been on most small businesses.

But Musarra pushes forward, crafting her authentic continental cuisine for hungry customers. She hopes that may be enough to get some much-needed relief for her businesses, as well as the community.

Musarra has her sights set on becoming the “Favorite Chef” in a competition hosted by celebrity Chef Eddie Matney. As of now, she’s ranking as one of the top competitors.

Entrants from around the world rely on social media votes to carry them to the top. After a series of voting rounds, the winner will be decided in early April. That chef will receive $50,000 and a sponsored spread in the national Bon Appetite Magazine.

The exposure is what excites Musarra the most.

“It would be so cool for Harrisburg,” she said. “It would be a win-win for our community.”

Musarra said the money would go straight back into the business so she can continue to feed the community.

“It’s supporting me to help support the larger community,” she said.

Voters can cast additional votes by donating, as a portion of the profits from the contest will go to Feeding America—a national organization that combats food insecurity. Each dollar counts as one vote.

“You’re voting for me, but it’s also going to a good cause,” Musarra said. “It’ll be a great thing for Feeding America.”

She said she appreciates the community support and all of the votes thus far. Staying afloat during the pandemic has been hard, but she’s just happy to still be standing. Musarra said winning the contest would be a huge accomplishment for her.

“This would be the greatest honor in my life,” she said.

Vote for Qui Qui Musarra on her profile page. For more information on the Favorite Chef contest, visit their website.

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50 Ways to Bide Your Time: Still stuck at home? We have a little Harrisburg-themed distraction.

January 29, 2021 | by Lawrance Binda

About once a year, I take a break from my usual conceit of trying to think great thoughts about our fair city and attempt to do something a little different.

So, one year, I tongue-in-cheeked it through a list of Harrisburg “gotta knows” for city newcomers and, another year, I set out to lure overwrought Washingtonians to our smaller capital city.

February seems as good a time as any to distract myself—and you—with more foolishness. So, I’ve compiled a list of 50 “very Harrisburg” items, events and nuggets. This list is designed with residents in mind, though anyone who’s spent time in the city should be able to answer a bunch. Please know that this isn’t a serious competition—it’s just some silly fun.

Award yourself two points for each one accomplished/answered then visit our Facebook page and tell us how you did.

If nothing else, this little exercise may allow you to chew up a few minutes as we all sit around and wait our turn at the vaccine.

The List (each item is worth 2 points)

Harrisburg & You

1) You’re born and raised.
2) You attended school here.
3) You’ve taken a class at HACC (extra point for earning a degree).
4) You’re a happy transplant.

Official HBG

5) Identify the tropical storm that devastated Harrisburg in 1972.
6) Name a Harrisburg mayor not Reed, Thompson or Papenfuse.
7) Name more than one current member of City Council.
8) Correctly name the entity that conducts city street sweeping.
9) Name the entity that owns Harrisburg’s parking system.
10) You own an artifact that once belonged to Steve Reed.

Down on the Corner

11) You know how to properly pronounce “Muench” Street.
12) You’ve almost been hit crossing Forster or State streets.
13) You know the common name of the neighborhood that was destroyed to expand the Capitol complex (extra point for correctly naming the park that now dominates the area in back of the Capitol).
14) You’ve never complained on social media about parking.
15) You’ve been on a Harrisburg house tour (extra point for showing your house).
16) You’ve heard shots fired (another point if you later realized it was duck hunters).
17) What’s the nickname of the Walnut Street Bridge?

Chow Down

18) You’ve eaten at all three: Mangia Qui, Suba and Rubicon.
19) You’ve had pizza at Subway Café.
20) You’ve patronized the taco truck at 15th and Market streets.
21) You’ve brunched at Crawdaddy’s.
22) You’ve held the door open at the Broad Street Market for a long, long line of strangers.
23) You have memories of one of the following long-gone eateries: The Spot, Alsedek’s, Santanna’s or Harry’s Tavern.
24) You can name one previous restaurant in the building that now houses Note Bistro & Winebar (extra point for naming a prior occupant of Ted’s; and yet another point for naming a prior occupant of Los Tres Cubanos).
25) You dined in the street during 2020.

Parks & Rec

26) You’ve picnicked in Reservoir Park (another 2 points for sledding in Reservoir Park).
27) You’ve run an organized race along the Harrisburg riverfront.
28) You’ve walked, run or biked the entire 3.1-mile loop in Wildwood Park.
29) You’ve played Water Golf.
30) You’ve biked the entire Capital Area Greenbelt (extra point if it was during the Tour de Belt; extra two points if you can identify the section of the Greenbelt that features the MLK Jr. Memorial).
31) You’ve attended at least two summer festivals in Riverfront Park (extra point for naming two memorials or statues located in Riverfront Park; extra two points for naming the organization primarily responsible for the Peace Garden)

Harrisburg Critters

32) You’ve waded through a cloud of mayflies (extra point if this happened at a Harrisburg Senators game).
33) You’ve swallowed a gnat while running/biking on the river walk.
34) You’ve had it already with all the spider webs!
35) You’ve dodged geese in Riverfront Park or Italian Lake.
36) You’ve dodged goose droppings in Riverfront Park or Italian Lake.
37) You’ve had some type of mouse, groundhog or squirrel issue.
38) You’ve posted on social media about a stray cat (extra 2 points for adopting the cat; another 2 points for visiting the Friends of Midtown Community Dog Park).
39) You know about the Harrisburg beaver and its vital role in city history.

Hometown Tourist

40) You’ve toured the state Capitol as an adult (add 2 more points for also visiting the State Museum as an adult).
41) You’ve been inside the Harris Cameron Mansion (extra point for touring the Fort Hunter Mansion).
42) You’ve attended at least two PA Farm Shows (extra point for going to “Food Court” day; another point for going in a snowstorm).
43) You’ve explored Harrisburg Cemetery, for fun.
44) You’ve attended a 3rd in the Burg event (extra point for hosting one).
45) You have a favorite Harrisburg mural (extra point for naming the artist.)
46) You’ve been on a pontoon boat on the Susquehanna.
47) You’ve kayaked on the Susquehanna.
48) You’ve sailed on the Pride of the Susquehanna.
49) You have a regular spot where you pick up TheBurg magazine (extra point if you subscribe to TheBurg Daily and another point if you’ve listened to TheBurg Podcast; two extra points if your name has been in TheBurg).
50) You heart Harrisburg.

Extra Credit: Award yourself two more big points if you’re a “Friend of TheBurg!”

How’d you do? We’ll link to this column on Facebook on the day the print issue drops (Jan. 29), so you can share your feedback with us. Sorry—there are no prizes, but I hope this column offered you a brief mental vacation. Now, where’s my vaccine already?

Your Score

Fewer than 20 points: What’s a Harrisburg?

20-30 points: You run the lights on Forster Street to vamoose.

30-40 points: You might show up—if the parking’s free.

40-50 points: Currently scrolling Trulia, hoping to find “deal.”

50-60 points: Asking around for “reliable” contractor.

60-70 points: You know where to get the best food at Kipona.

70-80 points: You eagerly anticipate each new issue of TheBurg.

80-90 points: You should have your own stand in the Broad Street Market.

90-100+ points: You’re John Harris.

Most responses are personal or subjective, but some items have actual answers. These include:

5: Agnes
6: There are too many to name here, but, believe it or not, there’s an informative Wikipedia page that lists all of Harrisburg’s mayors since the city incorporated—check it out.
8: Capital Region Water
9: The city technically owns the system but leases it.
11: “Min-ick” Street
13: Old 8th Ward and, for extra point, Soldier’s Grove
17: Old Shaky
30: The MLK Jr. Memorial is located on the Greenbelt’s Cameron Parkway.
31: The local chapter of the Physicians for Social Responsibility spearheaded creation of the Peace Garden.

Lawrance Binda is co-publisher and editor-in-chief of TheBurg.

Illustrations by Rich Hauck.

Support quality local journalism. Become a Friend of TheBurg!

Commonwealth to allow restaurants to double indoor capacity to 50 percent

September 8, 2020 | by Lawrance Binda

Many Harrisburg restaurants, including Mangia Qui and Rubicon, have expanded their outdoor dining this summer.

The commonwealth soon will permit restaurants to double their indoor capacity, allowing 50-percent occupancy.

Gov. Tom Wolf today said that restaurants will be allowed to increase occupancy starting on Sept. 21, but only for those who agree to a self-certification.

“While our aggressive and appropriate mitigation efforts have kept case counts low, we must continue to take important steps to protect public health and safety as we head into the fall,” Wolf said, in a statement. “At the same time, we must also support the retail food services industry that has struggled throughout this pandemic.”

In June, Wolf loosened restrictions so that restaurants in the state could operate at 50 percent capacity. However, COVID-19 caseloads began to creep up, prompting Wolf in July to reduce occupancy to 25-percent capacity indoors.

Many restaurants, including those in Harrisburg, responded by expanding outdoors dining as much as they could. However, restaurateurs have been worried about their business as the weather begins to cool, making outdoors dining less feasible.

Wolf today said restaurants could expand to 50-percent indoor capacity only if they self-certify that they are complying with all public health safety guidelines and orders.

“The self-certification ensures that restaurants can expand indoor operations and commit to all appropriate orders so that employees and customers alike can be confident they are properly protected,” he said, in a statement.

The self-certification documents and information can be found online starting Sept. 21 and will contain the following:

A list of requirements contained in the current restaurant industry guidanceand enforcement efforts
A statement that the owner has reviewed and agrees to follow these requirements
The business’ maximum indoor occupancy number based on the fire code
A statement that the owner understands that the certification is subject to penalties for unsworn falsification to authorities

Any restaurant that wishes to increase to 50 percent indoor capacity on Sept. 21 must complete the online self-certification process by Oct. 5.

Restaurants that self-certify will appear in the “Open & Certified Pennsylvania” searchable online database of certified restaurants across the commonwealth, which will be available for public viewing, according to the state.

“We recognize the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on Pennsylvania’s small businesses, especially on our restaurants,” Wolf said. “Through this self-certification process, our commonwealth’s restaurant industry will ensure the safety and well-being of both employees and patrons alike, and will be able to begin a return to normal operations and financial recovery.”

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